GP Rating Course 2026: Eligibility, Fees, Duration, Salary & Career Guide

Introduction

Choosing a career in the merchant navy is an attractive option for students who want to work at sea and explore opportunities in the shipping industry. The GP Rating Course 2026 is one of the training routes for candidates interested in entry-level deck and engine department work on merchant ships.

Before applying, students should understand the eligibility criteria, course duration, fees, expected salary and admission process. They should also check whether the training institute is approved by the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), Government of India.

What Is the GP Rating Course?

GP Rating stands for General Purpose Rating. It is a pre-sea training programme designed to prepare candidates for ratings-level duties in the deck and engine departments of merchant ships.

During training, students learn basic seamanship, shipboard safety, firefighting, personal survival techniques, elementary engine-room practices and other essential maritime skills. After completing the required training and meeting applicable certification and medical requirements, candidates may seek suitable entry-level positions on ships.

Completing the course does not guarantee a job. Employment depends on the candidate’s qualifications, required certificates, vacancies and recruitment conditions.

GP Rating Course 2026: Overview

Note: Confirm the current admission requirements, approved course duration and institute-specific fees before applying for the 2026 intake.

GP Rating Course Eligibility 2026

Candidates must satisfy the applicable educational, age, medical and other admission requirements.

Educational qualification: Applicants generally need to have passed Class 10 with the prescribed minimum aggregate marks and required marks in English. The exact requirements, including acceptable subjects and examination boards, must be checked against the latest official rules.

Age limit: The permitted age range may depend on the applicable admission rules and candidate category. Check the latest DG Shipping requirements and the institute’s official admission notification.

Medical fitness: Candidates must meet the prescribed medical standards for seafarers. Eyesight and colour vision are particularly important for maritime work. Obtain a medical examination from an appropriately approved medical practitioner before committing to admission.

Other requirements: Applicants should be prepared for a disciplined training environment, physical activities, safety drills and life away from home.

GP Rating Course Fees in 2026

GP Rating course fees vary between maritime institutes. The total cost may include tuition, accommodation, meals, uniforms, training equipment, medical examinations and examination or certification charges.

Do not rely on an advertised starting fee alone. Ask the institute for a written, itemised fee structure and confirm whether any placement-related charges apply.

GP Rating Course Duration and Training

The GP Rating course commonly lasts around six months, subject to the approved programme and applicable regulations. Training combines classroom learning with practical exercises.

Students may study seamanship, ship terminology, basic navigation support, engine-room familiarisation, maritime communication, personal safety, firefighting and emergency procedures.

The course is intended to prepare candidates for shipboard responsibilities. Successful completion of training does not automatically mean that every candidate is eligible to join a vessel; additional certificates, documentation and employer requirements may apply.

GP Rating Salary After the Course

Salary depends on the employer, vessel type, rank, experience, contract terms and whether the candidate secures employment with a shipping company.

Freshers should avoid assuming that a particular salary is guaranteed immediately after completing training. Ask recruiters about the actual position offered, monthly pay, contract duration, paid leave, insurance and other employment conditions.

With relevant sea service, additional training and required certification, candidates may become eligible for more responsible roles over time. Progression is not automatic and depends on experience, performance and applicable maritime regulations.

How to Apply for the GP Rating Course 2026

Follow these steps before enrolling:

1. Visit the official DG Shipping website and review the current GP Rating training requirements.
2. Check the approved institute and confirm that its course approval is valid for the relevant intake.
3. Read the admission notification for eligibility, age limits, medical standards and application dates.
4. Submit the application through the institute’s authorised admission process.
5. Complete the required document checks and medical examination.
6. Obtain written confirmation of admission, the complete fee structure and refund terms before making payment.

Official Websites and Important Links

Use DG Shipping’s official website to locate the relevant training institute approval information and current notices. Indian Maritime University’s website is useful for its own programmes and admission information; it should not be treated as confirmation that every GP Rating course is offered there.

Is the GP Rating Course Worth It?

The GP Rating course may suit candidates who meet the eligibility criteria and want to pursue entry-level work in the merchant navy. However, life at sea requires discipline, safety awareness, adaptability and extended periods away from family.

Before choosing an institute, verify its approval, compare the complete fees, understand the employment conditions and speak to former students where possible. A recognised course, valid certification and a genuine employment opportunity matter more than salary promises in advertisements.